Galloping into its 17th edition, the Great Charity Challenge (GCC) has left a lasting mark on Palm Beach County’s nonprofit community. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the event has served as a true catalyst for change, blending equestrian sport and philanthropy to distribute more than $24 million to 370 local charities over the past 16 years.
Originally founded by father-daughter team Mark and Paige Bellissimo, the GCC has grown from distributing $500,000 in its inaugural year to raising and distributing over $1 million every edition since. With another ambitious goal of $2 million in 2026, the event will once again return to Wellington International, home of the Winter Equestrian Festival, on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
The electrifying evening will feature showjumping paired with the unstoppable spirit of giving! Participating non-profits are guaranteed a minimum of $15,000, while the winning team will take home $100,000 for their paired organization.
Following the application and vetting process, all qualified charities will be assigned a “lottery ball” and entered into a raffle drum, with selections taking place during the month of December 2025. In keeping with tradition, the drawing will remain 100% random and will be live-streamed via the event’s social media channels. Additional smaller grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, will also be awarded through a random draw among vetted nonprofits.
©️Carly Nasznic Photography
To be eligible, applicants must, at a minimum:
- Be a registered 501(c)(3) organization
- Serve residents of Palm Beach County
- Have a physical presence in the County
- Commit to spending at least 75% of funding received locally
- Have a non-discrimination statement and/or policy
If you know of a deserving Palm Beach County charity, please encourage them to apply at www.greatcharitychallenge.com/2026-gcc. The application process is open from September 29, 2025, through 5:00 PM on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
©️Sportfot Photography
“We cannot thank our generous donors enough for making this event continue to grow and thrive,” comments Anne Caroline Valtin, Executive Director of the GCC. “Looking back on the last 16 years and the tie this event has created between Palm Beach County and the equestrian community, we see the growing need to support our neighbors. We urge organizations to apply for the chance to access unrestricted funding during these challenging times.”
Introducing this year’s theme: Rhyme Without Reason – promising a night filled with imagination, color, and creativity as equestrian teams bring whimsical pairings to life in support of our community. Beyond the costumes, this year’s theme captures the heart of what the GCC is all about: creating impact through unique and unexpected pairings. Just as a bee, a ski, and brie might rhyme without reason, the event unites sponsors, nonprofits, and equestrians in powerful ways that defy expectation—but deliver extraordinary results. Together, we’ll cheer, celebrate, and honor the spirit of teamwork while supporting dozens of Palm Beach County charities making a difference in the lives of thousands.
For additional event information, including information about the application process, donations, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.greatcharitychallenge.com. We also invite you to join us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with our latest news and happenings via Facebook and Instagram.
